four de Sevrier et autres fours et fourneaux d'argile aux ages des metaux en Europe occidentale

This volume looks at the history of the Sevrier kiln, an artefact discovered in 1974 in Lake Annecy, considered in turn as one of the earliest Western pottery kilns, an enigmatic stove for domestic use, and a technological link in the Final Bronze Age which heralded the professionalisation of pottery, hitherto a purely domestic industry.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 25 February 2021
Publisher: Archaeopress

The Sevrier kiln, unearthed in 1974 on a submerged island in Lake Annecy in the Haute-Savoie region of France, stands as a remarkable discovery in alpine archeology. Nearly fifty years after its discovery, it continues to ignite intense debate among scholars. This comprehensive study delves into the historical trajectory of an artifact that has been perceived as one of the earliest Western pottery kilns, an enigmatic stove for domestic use, and a significant technological breakthrough that heralded the professionalization of pottery, previously a purely domestic industry, characterized by seasonal production and self-sufficiency.

This multidisciplinary exploration employs archaeological, ethnoarchaeological, and experimental methodologies to scrutinize the diverse hypotheses surrounding the Sevrier kiln. By broadening the scope and offering fresh perspectives, the study aims to shed light on the complexities of this artifact.

In particular, the research focuses on the technological history of the Bronze Age communities, which played a pivotal role in the emergence of proto-artisans specializing in pottery production. This transformation occurred a few centuries later, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of human civilization.

The Sevrier kiln's discovery on a submerged island in Lake Annecy, France, in 1974 has sparked ongoing discussions among scholars in the field of alpine archeology. The kiln, which was found on a submerged island in Lake Annecy, is considered one of the earliest Western pottery kilns. It has been the subject of numerous studies and investigations over the years, with researchers attempting to understand its purpose, age, and significance.

The kiln was discovered in 1974 by a team of archaeologists led by Jean-Claude Sevrier. The team was exploring the submerged island of Annecy, which is located in the Haute-Savoie region of France, when they stumbled upon the kiln. The kiln was buried under several meters of sediment and was in a remarkably well-preserved state.

The archaeologists were able to date the kiln to the Final Bronze Age, which occurred between 1500 and 1000 BC. This period was a significant turning point in human history, as it marked the transition from a nomadic lifestyle to settled communities. The Final Bronze Age was characterized by the development of complex societies, the use of new technologies, and the emergence of trade networks.

The Sevrier kiln is significant because it provides evidence of the early development of pottery production in Western Europe. Prior to the discovery of the kiln, pottery was primarily a domestic industry, with individuals producing small amounts of pottery for their own use. However, the kiln suggests that pottery production was becoming more organized and specialized during the Final Bronze Age.

The kiln was constructed using a variety of materials, including clay, stone, and wood. The walls of the kiln were lined with clay, which provided insulation and prevented the kiln from burning out. The roof of the kiln was made of wood, which allowed for the ventilation of the kiln and the regulation of the temperature.

The archaeologists were able to identify several types of pottery that were produced in the kiln. These include bowls, pots, and jars. The pottery was decorated with a variety of techniques, including painting, stamping, and incising. The decorations were often geometric or floral in nature and were used to identify the pottery as belonging to a particular workshop or region.

The purpose of the Sevrier kiln is still a matter of debate among scholars. Some researchers suggest that the kiln was used for the production of pottery for domestic use. Others argue that the kiln was used for the production of pottery for trade or commerce. Some researchers even suggest that the kiln was used for the production of pottery for ritual or religious purposes.

Despite the ongoing debate, the Sevrier kiln remains a significant discovery in the field of alpine archeology. It provides valuable evidence of the early development of pottery production in Western Europe and sheds light on the complex social and economic structures of Bronze Age communities. The kiln continues to inspire researchers and scholars, and its discovery has helped to shape our understanding of the history and culture of the Bronze Age.

In conclusion, the Sevrier kiln is a remarkable discovery that has contributed significantly to our understanding of the history and culture of the Bronze Age. Its discovery in 1974 on a submerged island in Lake Annecy, France, has sparked ongoing debates among scholars and has helped to shape our understanding of the early development of pottery production in Western Europe. The kiln provides valuable evidence of the complex social and economic structures of Bronze Age communities and sheds light on the transition from a nomadic lifestyle to settled communities. The kiln's discovery has inspired researchers and scholars, and its significance will continue to be studied and debated for years to come.

Weight: 910g
Dimension: 204 x 290 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789698619